5 possible next opponents for Islam Makhachev after UFC Vegas 31

#2 Islam Makhachev vs Tony Ferguson

UFC 262: Tony Ferguson v Beneil Dariush

Another name who cropped up during Islam Makhachev's post-fight interviews, Tony Ferguson seems to be a favorable opponent for the Dagestani. 'El Cucuy' has been taken down and controlled in each of his last two fights by talented grapplers, and should a fight materialize, he will probably open up as a massive betting underdog.

However, poor stylistic matchup aside, this is a fight that could make a lot of sense for the division. Currently ranked fifth after Conor McGregor fell in the rankings, Ferguson could be the perfect step up in competition for Makhachev. Moreover, the 37-year-old's infamous history with Khabib Nurmagomedov would add intrigue to the fight.

Fans may not want to witness Ferguson face another grappling-heavy fighter, but the storylines certainly align.

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#1 Islam Makhachev vs Rafael dos Anjos

"You can run, but you can't hide. I'm coming. I'm here."@MAKHACHEVMMA wants RDA next 👀 #UFCVegas31 pic.twitter.com/agJBeLEMpB

— ESPN MMA (@espnmma) July 18, 2021

The first name on Islam Makhachev's lips after his win at UFC Vegas 31 was former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos. RDA is in a curious predicament at the moment, oddly distanced from the happenings of the lightweight division.

The two have a long history. Dos Anjos and Makhachev were scheduled to face off at UFC 254 on the Khabib Nurmagomedov vs Justin Gaethje undercard, but the Brazilian tested positive for COVID-19 and had to pull out. When the bout was rescheduled, Makhachev withdrew with a staph infection.

The stars may finally align for Dos Anjos and Makhachev to meet in the octagon. The former champ once claimed that he'd take on the Russian if he was guaranteed a rematch with Khabib if he won. And while that is the stuff of dreams and nothing more, he could still be coaxed into taking on Makhachev.

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